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Hey friends!
Are you in the holiday spirit yet? I know I am!
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Christmas cookies with a zesty twist—lemon!
These cookies are bright, cheerful, and perfect for celebrating the season.
Plus, they’re super easy to whip up.
So, grab your apron and let’s spread some holiday cheer together!
Preparation Time | 30-45 minutes |
Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
Total Time | 40-60 minutes |
Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Ingredients
Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 grams)
- 3 tablespoons lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 egg
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120 grams)
- 1 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for icing)
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups (240 grams) of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Mix well until evenly distributed and set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add ½ cup (113 grams) of unsalted, softened butter.
To the butter, add 3 tablespoons of lemon zest.
Sprinkle in ¾ cup (150 grams) of granulated sugar and mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Squeeze the juice from 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into the butter mixture.
Add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract (optional) for extra lemon flavor.
Crack in 1 egg and mix on medium speed until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually sprinkle in the flour mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined, leaving some streaks of flour.
Finish mixing by hand with a spatula to gently incorporate the remaining flour.
Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a 1½ tablespoon-sized scoop, portion out the cookie dough.
Roll each portion into a ball and place on a baking sheet.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and just starting to take on color.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare Lemon Icing and Finish Cookies
While the cookies are baking, prepare the lemon icing by whisking together 1 cup (120 grams) of powdered sugar and 1 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until you achieve a drizzling consistency.
Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or dip them in the lemon icing.
Allow the icing to set before storing.
Step 7: Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and flavor.